2027 goals
The next chapter is about what connectivity makes possible for people, communities, and the systems we rely on every day.
Since 2021, MCA has made historic progress expanding access to high-speed internet – connecting over 120,000 homes and businesses. Yet 89% of Mainers are at risk of not meaningfully using that internet connection because of how old they are, their life experiences, or what their income is.
In 2026, MCA conducted a statewide survey and strategic planning process to develop Connectivity 2030. By 2030, connectivity in Maine must do more than reach people – it must work for them. MCA’s charge is to ensure that everyone in Maine can fully benefit from connectivity: economically, socially, and civically.
We cannot do this work alone. Connectivity touches aspects of everyday life, from reading the news, to accessing healthcare, to getting a fishing permit. If we want Maine to achieve our statewide economic goals, climate goals, energy independence goals, we need connectivity to be integrated into how these goals are achieved.
Awards, national rankings or recognition
- Maine was the first state in the country to have an approved statewide Digital Equity Plan, developed by MCA through extensive community engagement.
- MCA’s MOOSE Net project was one of 32 selected nationwide, from 260 competitive applications, to build future-proof, middle mile infrastructure for the state.
- (Nominated) Light Reading’s Leading Lights Awards 2026 Fidium and Maine Connectivity Authority for bringing countywide fiber to Lincoln County
Fundraising events/opportunities
Building out internet infrastructure is not enough to realize the benefits of connectivity for Maine; we must make sure Maine people have the access, devices, and skills they need to improve their lives through connectivity. MCA is launching the Digital Opportunity Fund to expand partnerships with private and philanthropic donors to do just that.
Businesses and community partners across Maine have a role to play in every pillar of digital opportunity: helping expand access to reliable, affordable internet in the communities they serve; putting retired or surplus devices back into circulation for neighbors who need them; supporting digital skills development for job seekers and employees navigating new career pathways; connecting people, especially older adults, to trustworthy technical support when questions arise; and sharing resources that help veterans and other community members find government services and stay safe from scams online.
With 89% of people in Maine facing at least one barrier to connectivity, MCA can’t close that gap alone. By embracing these five pillars alongside MCA, Maine businesses and organizations can become partners in building a Maine where everyone has the connection, devices, skills, and support to fully participate in today’s economy and community life.
Giving opportunities
- Invest in place-based Connectivity Hubs to advance education, telehealth, and workforce development services at libraries, community centers, and Tribal facilities.
- Reduce exposure to cyber threats, scams, and fraud through the Digital Resilience program.
- Support regional and Tribal coalitions to build capacity for advancing digital opportunity statewide.
- Join the Tech Help for ME network so that Mainers can find free wifi, low-cost devices, and tech support near them.
- Distribute surplus devices through Maine Tech Share, in partnership with give IT. get IT., the only certified nonprofit device refurbisher in New England.
